Texas Roadhouse Rolls

Save this recipe on:

The first time I attempted to recreate the famous Texas Roadhouse Rolls, I wasn’t prepared for the kind of buttery, melt-in-your-mouth perfection that would come out of my oven. It was like the warm hug of a breadbasket on a Sunday evening. Lightly golden, pillowy soft, and just slightly sweet — they were so good, I ended up baking another batch the same night.

I found that making these rolls from scratch was not just a baking session, but a ritual. From the moment the yeast came alive in warm milk to the final brush of melted butter over freshly baked tops, every step felt grounding. And that heavenly scent? It filled my kitchen and lingered like a promise that good things take time.

These rolls are more than just bread. They’re the ones you reach for before the meal even starts, the ones you fight over the last piece of. Trust me, once you make them at home, there’s no going back to store-bought dinner rolls. They’re surprisingly simple, and worth every second of proofing and baking.

Why You’ll Love This Texas Roadhouse Rolls Recipe

These rolls are the ultimate comfort food. With a tender, airy crumb and subtle sweetness, they’re the perfect balance between dinner roll and indulgent treat. Whether served fresh out of the oven or slathered with honey cinnamon butter, they have that special way of disappearing fast.

Ingredients

Milk: Warm whole milk activates the yeast and enriches the dough with a creamy softness. It also gives the rolls their iconic tender texture.

Active Dry Yeast: This is what gives the rolls their lift. Properly activated in warm milk, the yeast ensures a fluffy rise and a light, airy interior.

Sugar: Just a bit of sugar helps to feed the yeast and gives these rolls their delicate sweetness, reminiscent of the original Texas Roadhouse flavor.

Egg: It adds richness to the dough and contributes to the soft and fluffy crumb.

Butter: Melted butter is added to the dough and also brushed on top for a glossy, golden finish and that irresistible buttery flavor.

All-Purpose Flour: The structure of the rolls comes from this versatile flour. It yields a light yet satisfying bite when properly kneaded and proofed.

Salt: A crucial flavor balancer, it brings out the sweetness and enhances the buttery notes.

How to Make Texas Roadhouse Rolls

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Warm the milk until it’s about 100-110°F, then stir in the sugar and sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes, until it’s foamy and fragrant.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine the yeast mixture with the egg, melted butter, and salt. Gradually add in the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead it until it’s smooth and elastic.

Step 3: First Rise

Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Step 4: Shape the Rolls

Punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface to about ½ inch thick. Cut into squares or rectangles and place them on a lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Second Rise

Cover the shaped rolls and let them rise again for 30 to 45 minutes until puffy and pillowy.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Step 7: Butter Finish

Brush the hot rolls with melted butter right out of the oven for that iconic Texas Roadhouse shine and flavor.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you want to make these rolls a little different or accommodate dietary needs, there are a few easy adjustments. For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative like almond or oat milk and use vegan butter. While it won’t replicate the richness entirely, it still yields a deliciously soft texture. You can also use bread flour instead of all-purpose if you want an even chewier bite.

To turn these into garlic butter rolls, add a pinch of garlic powder to the dough and mix some minced garlic into the melted butter before brushing. Feeling extra indulgent? Stuff the rolls with small cubes of cheddar or mozzarella for a gooey surprise in the middle.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

These rolls pair well with just about everything. Serve them warm with homemade chili, a hearty stew, or alongside a simple roasted chicken dinner. They also shine on holiday tables, complementing dishes like turkey, ham, or green bean casserole.

For a true Texas Roadhouse experience, whip up a quick honey cinnamon butter to spread on each warm roll. It elevates the flavor from comforting to downright crave-worthy.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, they freeze beautifully. Simply wrap in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, pop them in a 300°F oven for 8-10 minutes or until warmed through. A fresh brush of butter before serving brings them back to life.

FAQs

How long does it take to make Texas Roadhouse Rolls from start to finish?

The whole process takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, including both rises and baking time. Most of it is hands-off, allowing the dough to rise.

Can I make Texas Roadhouse Rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight after the first rise. Just bring it to room temperature before shaping and let it rise again before baking.

What’s the best flour to use for Texas Roadhouse Rolls?

All-purpose flour works perfectly for soft and tender rolls. However, you can also use bread flour for a more structured bite.

How do I know my yeast is active when making Texas Roadhouse Rolls?

After 5-10 minutes in warm milk with sugar, the mixture should become foamy. If not, your yeast may be expired or the milk too hot or cold.

Can I freeze the dough for Texas Roadhouse Rolls?

Yes, you can freeze the shaped rolls before the second rise. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight and let them rise before baking.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you love these rolls, you’ll definitely want to try the Small Batch Pistachio Cream Cinnamon Rolls for a sweet twist or the Cheesy Baked Tennessee Onions as a flavorful savory side. For another easy-to-make comfort dish, check out the Loaded Cheese Fries Recipe that will win any crowd.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Don’t let this homemade Texas Roadhouse Rolls recipe slip away! Make sure to pin it on your Pinterest board so it’s easy to find next time you’re hosting dinner or planning a cozy weekend meal. Share it with your family and friends — trust me, they’ll be thanking you after that first bite. Whether you text them the link or post it in your favorite foodie group, this is one recipe worth spreading.

Save this recipe on: